It is for freedome that Christ has set us free.
Thoughts for Today:Of all the Scripture I have personally committed to memory, our passage today is one of those that comes up most frequently in my conversations with other Christians. Why? Because just like the Galatians, many Christians are bound by either their own self-imposed rules and regulations or the expectations of other people. However, in the same way that our country must persevere to maintain the freedom and protection of each citizen's rights, so we also must stand firmly and resolutely in guarding our spiritual freedom.
The specific freedom that Paul is addressing relates to being released from the bondage and oppression of the Old Testament Law. The Encarta Dictionary defines the word "freedom" as: 1) a state in which somebody is able to act and live as he or she chooses, without being subject to any undue restraints or restrictions; 2) release or rescue from being physically bound, or from being confined, enslaved, captured, or imprisoned.
Unfortunately, some people have misinterpreted this verse to justify their desire to live in ungodly ways or participate in sinful activities. But it's really a question of control: Who or what controls us? Are we controlled by our love for God and by the indwelling Spirit of Christ, or something else? Soon Paul will make it clear that the freedom he speaks of is NOT freedom to sin, but freedom from sin.
Questions to Ponder:Who or what controls your thoughts and actions? For example, do you read and study Scripture out of compulsion, guilt, and obligation or simply because of your great love of God? Which do you think will return a greater reward? How can you change your perspective?